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MMA Analysis: Is "Rampage" Jackson Taking Matt Hamill Too Lightly?

May 24, 2011
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Simply put, Quinton Jackson is no longer fighting at the highest level of competition. Over the last few years, we have heard him openly admit to being very out of shape in-between fights. Now leading into UFC 130, Jackson has been mentioning the thought of retirement. Instances like this make the MMA community wonder how seriously he is taking his opponent, Matt Hamill.

At this point in his career, Hamill is one that shouldn’t be taken lightly by anyone. Since his time on Season three of The Ultimate Fighter, Hamill has established himself as one of the toughest competitors at 205 lbs. In his last two bouts, Hamill has shown his growth as a fighter and his ability to take on tougher opponents. Last June, “The Hammer” took on unorthodox striker Keith Jardine. The two battled back and forth for three rounds, both earning Fight of the Night honors but Hamill the majority decision. Following that, he faced off against former coach Tito Ortiz. Hamill again proved that he is ever improving and should be fighting a top ten opponent. Now, he will finally get the step up in competition he has wanted in Jackson.

Jackson has achieved a very respected career over the past 12 years. He has held the UFC light heavyweight title and defended it once. He has also put together a highlight reel of some of the most devastating knockouts and slams. Over the years, many have questioned his dedication and desire to be the best fighter he can. With reoccurring movie roles and constant discontent with how he is treated by the UFC, Jackson may truly be fighting his last few fights. With this attitude and judging by his past performances, it’s hard to believe that we are going to see a different “Rampage” this Saturday night. If he comes out in the shape he’s been in lately, we will likely see Hamill earn the biggest win of his career. However, we could see Jackson enter the cage with a fire burning inside, ready to defeat the man across from him. By now, we’ve all grown accustomed to being let down by “Rampage” and it’s likely to be the case again at UFC 130.